Physics $166,290
mean annual wage of physicists* *According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024 report.
100%
of students engage in experiential learning.
Develop a deep understanding of the fundamental forces shaping our universe through Valpo’s hands-on physics program, where rigorous academics, immersive research, and close mentorship from our expert professors prepare you to shine in your field.
C A R E E R P AT H S Over the last five years, over 60% of Valpo physics graduates have continued on to graduate school within nine months after graduation. Our alumni have pursued advanced degrees at institutions like:
At Valparaiso University, our physics program is crafted for students who seek a hands-on, immersive education in understanding the universe at its most fundamental levels. From day one, you will engage in a research-rich curriculum, gaining hands-on experience in stateof-the-art facilities, including specialized labs for modern physics, particle physics, and nuclear physics. You’ll have the chance to dive deeply into experimental physics, culminating in a senior project where you will design, execute, and analyze your own experiment. And as part of our close-knit community, you’ll experience the difference personalized support and interdisciplinary collaboration can make, preparing you to embrace challenges, grow as a curious scientist, and bring light to complex questions about the natural world.
VALPO PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY HAS GONE VIRAL Follow @valpo_phys_astro on Instagram to join the fun! Check out our popular Equation of the Week series, pop culture moments, and a behindthe-scenes look at our students and professors.
Visit valpo.edu/alumni-success to learn more.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING At Valpo, you’ll join 100% of your physics classmates in experiential learning, which is central to the academic experience. Additionally, each summer, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for paid research positions, joining professors on projects that span from studying the structure of protons to pioneering research in nanoscience and materials science. These research opportunities extend beyond the lab with the chance to to present your findings at national conferences, allowing you to build a professional network and strengthen your skills in communicating science. By fostering these real-world experiences, Valpo ensures you will leave not only with technical expertise but also with the confidence to drive discovery and collaboration in various career paths or graduate studies.
EXPERT MENTORSHIP With small class sizes and dedicated professors, our physics program offers a community that feels like family. Our 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized support, and our professors are more than experts — they’re mentors who genuinely care about each student’s journey — yours included. From individualized academic advising to writing recommendation letters that help you stand out, professors at Valpo are invested in helping you achieve your personal and professional goals, even after graduation.
“ I could tell that Valpo was going to be a place that cared about me as a person and that cared about my journey, not only during my four years here but where I ended up after the fact. And it was a huge draw for me knowing that coming to Valpo, I was going to get to jump into research right away with our incredible faculty members, and have real handson experience, handling data and making discoveries.” L ANE S CHEEL ’25 MAJORS: PHYSICS, MATHEMATICS MINOR: HUMANITIES
Read Lane’s story at bit.ly/valpolanescheel.
SCHOL ARSHIPS AND AWARDS
Be a Beacon Valparaiso University admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. (For a full statement, see valpo.edu.)
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For more information on financial aid, visit valpo.edu/aid.
Take the next step toward your bright future by visiting valpo.edu/physics, or by scanning the QR code.
Valparaiso University Valparaiso, IN 46383 web: valpo.edu email: undergrad.admission@valpo.edu